Editorial: Quick-thinking young hero

There's really no height or weight limitation for becoming a hero. Just ask 6-year-old Tyler Bangs of Simi Valley.

Last month, young Tyler and his friend, Braeden Thomas, 5, were playing when their ball was kicked into a swimming pool. When Braeden, who doesn't know how to swim, went to retrieve the ball, he slipped and fell in the pool.

The boy, unable to touch bottom, began to struggle as he tried unsuccessfully to reach the side of the pool. With no one else around, Tyler quickly ran to the pool to help his friend. He lay on his stomach, anchored his feet and grabbed Braeden's hand, pulling him to safety.

Fortunately, because of Tyler's fast and courageous actions there's not a tragic side to this story. Only a story of two young boys now connected by this event for the rest of their lives.

Tyler was recognized for his lifesaving efforts Monday by the Ventura County Fire Department during a special assembly at White Oak School in Simi Valley. He received a certificate of appreciation and a toy firetruck.

We think young Tyler's quick thinking and bravery that day deserves a whole lot of attention. As should the lesson this near-drowning provides to parents everywhere: Never leave a child alone near a swimming pool.